KPMG has announced the launch of the Nature Positive Challenge, aiming to support the growth of eco-startups and to foster innovative ideas, solutions, and technologies that promote positive environmental outcomes. This year, the challenge will focus on two key themes: the regenerative economy and sustainable food systems, both of which are particularly pertinent to Fiji and the South Pacific region.
The initiative will allocate a total of $250,000 in services among five selected ventures, including mentorship from KPMG’s business leaders and specialist teams to enhance their development. The standout enterprise will receive the KPMG Nature Positive Prize of $100,000 as an unrestricted cash grant. Additionally, a $20,000 prize will be awarded to one of the five finalists based on a ‘People’s Choice’ vote from KPMG employees.
KPMG will also facilitate connections between the startups and essential partners in industry, business, science, and community, along with impact investors. Previous winners of the KPMG Nature Positive Challenge include Uluu, a biotech focused on plastic alternatives that raised $8 million in seed funding and collaborated with Quiksilver, and Xylo Systems, a biodiversity data platform startup projected to reach $1 million in revenue soon.
Camille Goldstone-Henry, Co-founder and CEO of Xylo Systems, which won last year’s KPMG Nature Positive Prize, stated, “Winning the KPMG Nature Positive Challenge was a game-changer for us. The funding accelerated the launch of our platform, positioning us as leaders in biodiversity tech and attracting global clients. Partnering with KPMG’s nature and biodiversity experts sharpened our alignment with global nature frameworks, enhancing our value to international customers.”
With a combined total of AUD370,000 in advisory support and prize money available this year, KPMG is inviting applications from innovative ventures that are working towards nature positive outcomes. The submission period for the KPMG Nature Positive Challenge runs from Thursday, October 10, to Friday, November 8, 2024.
(Note: Prize amounts for any local Fijian winners will be distributed in local Fijian currency.)